Entrepreneur Chandrakant Salunkhe Advocates for a Dedicated SME Department in Maharashtra
Mumbai, Maharashtra, June 6, 2023 — Chandrakant Salunkhe, a prominent entrepreneur and President of the Maharashtra Industry Development Association and SME Chamber of India, has called on the Maharashtra government to establish a dedicated department for Small and Medium Enterprises (SMEs).
Maharashtra is home to over 32 lakh SMEs across various sectors, including manufacturing, services, and allied industries. These businesses play a vital role in the state’s economy, contributing significantly to job creation and overall economic growth. Mr. Salunkhe has been a long-time advocate for a specialized government body that would focus on the unique needs of SMEs and provide them with the support necessary to thrive.
SMEs as the Backbone of Maharashtra’s Economy
“The government’s focus has traditionally been on large enterprises, but SMEs are the backbone of the economy. They contribute significantly to job creation and regional development,” said Mr. Salunkhe. “A dedicated SME department would acknowledge their crucial role in economic growth and implement targeted policies, schemes, and support systems that can address their challenges and promote their global competitiveness.”
Many states across India have already created dedicated ministries, secretariats, or commissionerates to support their SME sectors. Mr. Salunkhe has urged the Maharashtra Chief Minister, Industries Minister, Chief Secretary, and Principal Secretary of Industries to act promptly and establish a separate SME department that would cater specifically to the growth and development of these enterprises.
Addressing Critical Challenges Faced by SMEs
Despite various government initiatives, SMEs continue to face a range of challenges, including inadequate infrastructure, erratic power and water supply, and limited access to business support services. Mr. Salunkhe pointed out that although efforts have been made through the Ministry of Industries and the Development Commissionerate of Industries, a dedicated department would be more effective in overcoming these obstacles.
“A separate SME department, led by a dedicated secretary, would ensure that the challenges SMEs face are addressed more effectively,” he explained. “This will help streamline policies, provide better support, and ensure that SMEs have a level playing field in terms of business growth and competitiveness.”
Enhancing Coordination and Industrial Development
Mr. Salunkhe further proposed the appointment of Joint CEOs within the Maharashtra Industrial Development Corporation (MIDC) to expedite important issues affecting the SME sector. These executives would focus on accelerating the allocation of industrial land, reviving dormant units, and driving investments and Foreign Direct Investment (FDI) into Maharashtra’s SME landscape. This initiative aims to enhance industrial activities and create a more supportive ecosystem for SMEs in terms of supply chains and procurement.
Improving Business Relations and Law Enforcement
To further support the growth of SMEs, Mr. Salunkhe also suggested the creation of a committee consisting of police officers and office bearers from trade and industry bodies. This committee would aim to establish strong, harmonious relations between businesses, industries, and commercial enterprises across the state. It would also review law and order concerns, focusing on preventing harassment of companies, which in turn would increase confidence in the system and foster a more entrepreneurial-friendly environment.
A Call for Action to Empower SMEs
Chandrakant Salunkhe’s vision for a dedicated SME department underscores the vital need for focused attention on the sector. SMEs are pivotal to Maharashtra’s economic success, and with the right policies and support, they can flourish, creating more jobs and enhancing the state’s industrial capabilities.
For further details, please visit www.smechamberofindia.com.
Rajneesh Singh is a journalist at Asian News, specializing in entertainment, culture, international affairs, and financial technology. With a keen eye for the latest trends and developments, he delivers fresh, insightful perspectives to his audience. Rajneesh’s passion for storytelling and thorough reporting has established him as a trusted voice in the industry.
